Former Belk manager charged with assault

A Lexington resident and former manager of Belk has been charged with simple assault after an incident at the store, according to a Lexington Police Department arrest report.

BY REBEKAH CANSLER MCGEEThe Dispatch

A Lexington resident and former manager of Belk has been charged with simple assault after an incident at the store, according to a Lexington Police Department arrest report.Richard McDonald, 46, of 511 Beckner Road, allegedly assaulted a female employee while at Belk on Oct. 10. According to a magistrate criminal complaint form, a 25-year-old female reported McDonald pulled her into his office, shut the door and turned off the light. She also claimed he grabbed her arm and shoved her against the wall.The victim asked to consult her attorney before commenting but did not return a phone call.McDonald was served a criminal summons Oct. 10 while still at Belk. If convicted of the Class 2 misdemeanor with no prior convictions, he could serve up to 30 days in jail and face a fine of $1,000, according to North Carolina General Statutes. McDonald was the manager for about a year before the incident occurred.McDonald could not be reached for comment although the Lexington Belk has a new manager, Tyree Fuller.McDonald was scheduled to appear in court Nov. 9, but the case was continued to Dec. 14.Jessica Graham, vice president, communications and community relations for Belk, said she could not comment on personnel issues. Rebekah Cansler McGee can be reached at 249-3981, ext. 228, or at rebekah.mcgee@the-dispatch.com.